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Toronto Blue Jays Analyst Buck Martinez Retires

BSM Staff
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Toronto Blue Jays Analyst Buck Martinez Retires

Buck Martinez has announced his retirement from broadcasting, bringing an end to one of the most enduring and recognizable careers in baseball media. Martinez, whose association with the Toronto Blue Jays spans more than four decades across multiple roles, will step away from the booth following the 2025 season.

Martinez shared the news in a personal statement reflecting on a journey that began when he arrived in Toronto as a player in May 1981. What he initially believed might be the closing chapter of his playing career instead evolved into a lifelong bond with the franchise and its fans.

That relationship culminated this fall with a memorable postseason run, including Game 7 of the World Series, which Martinez described as both a joy and an honor to call.

“It has been a fantastic journey with Sportsnet, the Blue Jays and the wonderful Blue Jays fans all over the world. Thank you all for embracing me and welcoming my family and me in a way that has made us feel like we are part of yours,” wrote Martinez.

Following the conclusion of the season, Martinez said he and his wife, Arlene, spent time reflecting on the future. After several conversations, the couple decided it was the right moment for him to retire and focus on life beyond broadcasting.

“I will dearly miss my working partners, the leadership at Rogers, and the Toronto Blue Jays baseball club, all of whom made it so much fun to be at the ballpark talking about the game I’ve loved for my whole life,” said Martinez. “To the fans specifically, I will miss the “selfies,” the handshakes and the welcoming smiles. I will never forget any of those, nor the unwavering support and generosity, which has meant more than words can say. I look forward to continuing to root for the Blue Jays along with you, and you’ll always be in my heart.”

Sportsnet President Greg Sansone praised Martinez’s impact on both the network and the sport, calling him a legend whose voice became synonymous with summer baseball in Canada. Sansone noted Martinez’s passion, preparation, and commitment to excellence as qualities that defined his long tenure with Sportsnet.

Martinez’s broadcasting career began almost immediately after his playing days, as he transitioned into television work in 1987. Across two stints with the Blue Jays, spanning 1987 to 2025, he called more than 4,000 games, becoming a fixture for generations of fans. His résumé also includes extensive work for national and international outlets, including ESPN, TBS, TSN, MLB International, and XM Radio, along with coverage of multiple All-Star Games, postseason series, World Series matchups, and World Baseball Classics.

Toronto Blue Jays President and CEO Mark Shapiro highlighted Martinez’s unique legacy with the organization, pointing to his rare distinction of serving as a player, manager, and broadcaster. Shapiro credited Martinez with connecting generations of fans through storytelling, insight, and authenticity that extended far beyond the microphone.

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‘The Fred Show’ Added To KISS 107.1 Cincinnati Beginning February 9

BMM Staff
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‘The Fred Show’ Added To KISS 107.1 Cincinnati Beginning February 9

iHeartMedia Cincinnati is making a significant move in morning radio by bringing a nationally recognized show to one of the market’s most competitive dayparts. Beginning Monday, February 9, KISS 107.1, Cincinnati’s top hit music station, will debut The Fred Show in the weekday 6–10 a.m. ET slot.

The addition marks a strategic programming shift for KISS 107.1 as the station looks to further strengthen its connection with younger audiences while maintaining its leadership position in the market. Known for its fast-paced humor and personality-driven segments, The Fred Show arrives with an established following and a format built around daily interaction, pop culture conversation, and listener engagement.

Hosted by longtime morning personality Fred, the show features a tight-knit ensemble that includes Kaelin, Paulina, Showbiz Shelly, Jason Brown, and Keke. Together, the group blends comedy, relationship talk, trending topics, and audience participation into a high-energy presentation designed to keep listeners engaged throughout the morning commute.

“We can’t wait to introduce ourselves to Cincinnati and step into the next chapter with this legendary brand in such an incredible city,” shared Fred.

Station leadership echoed that enthusiasm, framing the launch as a natural fit for the market’s evolving tastes. Jonathan Shuford, Director of Programming and Brand Strategy for iHeartMedia Markets Group, described the show as a bold addition that aligns with the station’s vision.

“Fred and the team’s energy, passion, and humor are going to completely upend the morning routine in the Tri-State area and we’re honored to have them be a part of the KISS 107.1 family,” said Shuford.

The Fred Show brings national credibility to the lineup, but it also carries a strong local emphasis. While the program airs in multiple markets across the country, each affiliate allows room for community-focused conversation and market-specific engagement. That flexibility has played a key role in the show’s growth since joining Premiere Networks’ national lineup in 2023.

Fred, whose real name is Christopher Frederick, has built his career through stops in Austin and Charlotte before landing at iHeartMedia Chicago’s 103.5 KISS FM in 2011. Outside the studio, he maintains a wide range of interests, including aviation and philanthropy, and remains active with several charitable organizations nationwide.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

92.9 The Wave Rebrands With Yacht Rock for Coastal Virginia

BMM Staff
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92.9 The Wave Rebrands With Yacht Rock for Coastal Virginia

Max Media of Coastal Virginia is steering one of its heritage signals in a new direction, as 92.9 The Wave officially rebrands as “Yacht Rock for Coastal Virginia.” The decision marks a format shift designed to better align with regional lifestyle and evolving listener tastes. It positions the station squarely in the lane of smooth, melodic hits that dominated the late 1970s and 1980s.

Songs from Michael McDonald, The Doobie Brothers, Toto, Kenny Loggins, Steely Dan, and Christopher Cross form the backbone of the new playlist, which Max Media believes fits naturally with Coastal Virginia’s relaxed, water-centric culture.

Operations Manager Jay West said the decision reflects both audience demand and a renewed appreciation for music tied to what many listeners consider a simpler, more optimistic era. “These songs have the ability to bridge generations. There’s a real thirst for this music from a smoother, simpler era. The 70’s & 80’s are back in style,” said West.

Keith Barton, vice president and general manager of Max Media of Coastal Virginia, described the reimaging as a strategic evolution rather than a departure from the station’s core mission.

“The reimaging of 92.9 The Wave as Coastal Virginia’s Yacht Rock station is a natural fit,” said Keith Barton, Vice President and General Manager of Max Media of Coastal Virginia. “This format delivers feel-good music that listeners know and love. We’re excited to introduce a station that reflects the relaxed coastal lifestyle of our community.”

Beyond the music, the station plans to lean heavily into local identity and personality-driven programming. Familiar on-air voices will remain part of the lineup, guiding listeners through a curated mix of Yacht Rock titles, including deeper cuts that rarely receive traditional radio airplay. The station also intends to expand coastal-themed promotions, contests, and community events that reinforce the brand’s connection to life on and around the water.

From a broader industry perspective, the move reflects continued fragmentation within music radio formats, as operators prioritize niche branding and lifestyle alignment over wide but less defined musical lanes. Yacht Rock, once considered a novelty label, has emerged as a reliable performer in several markets, particularly in coastal and retirement-heavy regions where listener loyalty and time spent listening remain strong.

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The Ben Shapiro Show Sees Top 10 Jump in January Podtrac Rankings

BNM Staff
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The Ben Shapiro Show Sees Top 10 Jump in January Podtrac Rankings

The January Podtrack podcast rankings are out and The Ben Shapiro Show saw a strong jump into the top 10 during the month.

During 2026’s first month, The Daily Wire podcast saw a five-position increase compared to the prior month. The Ben Shapiro Show earned the seventh overall spot on the U.S. Unique Monthly Audience list.

The six programs about The Ben Shapiro Show remained completely unchanged compared to December. Those podcasts were NPR News Now, The Daily, Up First from NPR, Dateline NBC, Fox News Hourly Update, and Pardon My Take.

Other news-centric podcasts also saw strong finishes during the month. The Shawn Ryan Show earned a two-place improvement to 13th overall, while The Ezra Klein Show made its first appearance in the top 20 at 14th. Similarly, The NPR Politics Podcast also cracked the top 20, taking the final position on the list.

iHeartAudience Network and iHeartPodcasts remained the top two publishers on the Top U.S. Podcast Publishers & Networks list.

It was followed by NPR, Acast, Lubsyn, Vox Media, Disney, Fox Audio Network, DailyWire+, and PodcastOne in the top 10.

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Pat McAfee Admits Personal Struggle With Winning Approval From Those He Feels Should Like Him

BSM Staff
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Pat McAfee Admits Personal Struggle With Winning Approval From Those He Feels Should Like Him

Pat McAfee has built one of the most polarizing and commercially successful brands in modern sports media, and he understands that part of that success comes with a cost. Not everyone is going to like what he does, how he does it, or the space his program occupies within the industry.

During a recent interview with Dan Dakich of OutKick, McAfee acknowledged that reality while offering a rare glimpse into how criticism affects him personally. He did so even as his show continues to thrive across multiple platforms. McAfee agreed with Dakich’s assertion that he cannot win over everyone. That reality holds regardless of how he presents himself or his show.

“I think that’s real. I think I know that, and understand it at this point,” McAfee said. “I don’t love it though. I get bummed out sometimes when people who I think should like me, or I would get along with and they don’t like me. That bums me out.”

McAfee’s comments reflect a level of self-awareness that is not always associated with his loud, unapologetic on-air persona. Since transitioning from an NFL punter into a full-scale media entrepreneur, he has made his priorities clear. Authenticity matters more to him than universal approval.

That approach has helped him build a massive following, but it has also placed him squarely in the crosshairs of traditional sports media critics.

McAfee’s run of success however tells a different tale despite his critics. January was the second-best month for ESPN since 1996, but The Pat McAfee Show saw its best month ever on the network. During the first month of 2026, the program averaged 575,000 total viewers between the linear and digital options. That figure marks a 15% increase compared to its previous record, which was set in December 2025.

The Pat McAfee Show delivered its second-largest single-day audience since joining ESPN on January 19th, drawing 915,000 viewers. That Monday followed the NFL Divisional Round. It also coincided with the College Football Playoff National Championship Game. The day further benefited from the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday

While the program has delivered strong engagement and attracted a younger audience, its free-flowing style has challenged traditional norms tied to network studio programming. Despite the criticism, McAfee has remained consistent in his message. He has said he is not trying to be everything to everyone. Instead, he focuses on serving the audience that connects with his brand. That approach has remained central, even if it alienates others within the industry.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Several Leagues Reportedly Attempting To Accelerate Media Deal Talks Ahead of NFL Discussions

BSM Staff
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Several Leagues Reportedly Attempting To Accelerate Media Deal Talks Ahead of NFL Discussions

The next major shakeup in the sports media landscape may not wait for the NFL to make its move. With the NFL expected to reenter rights negotiations much sooner than anticipated, several professional leagues are exploring whether it makes sense to accelerate their own talks.

According to reporting by John Ourand of Puck, multiple leagues with deals expiring later this decade have expressed concern that an aggressive NFL negotiation window could absorb available capital across the media ecosystem.

That anxiety has prompted early conversations about reopening contracts well ahead of schedule.

Among those signaling flexibility is the PGA Tour, where new CEO Brian Rolapp has reportedly told current partners that the tour remains open to discussions as early as the next one to two years. Rolapp’s perspective carries weight, given his long tenure inside the NFL.

MLB and the NHL both have national deals expiring within the next five years, placing them squarely in the window where timing could influence leverage. MLB currently maintains relationships with several NFL partners, including FOX Sports, NBC Sports, ESPN , and Netflix. The NHL’s primary U.S. partner remains ESPN, but also carries a rights agreement with TNT Sports.

With the amount of money flowing to rights deals in 2024 and 2025, many expect the NFL to pursue significant rights fee increases when it returns to market. The NFL has hinted they are open to the process that could begin as soon as this fall. Given the NFL’s unmatched audience dominance, expectations say the league could seek fees that exceed current NBA benchmarks by a wide margin.

The market has already shown signs of strain. After the NBA finalized its $77 billion rights package in 2024, several properties encountered resistance, including Formula 1, which ultimately secured a deal only after intervention from Apple.

For leagues outside the NFL orbit, the outlook appears clear. Waiting too long could mean negotiating in a market already depleted by the NFL’s gravitational pull, while acting early may offer a rare chance to lock in stability before the next financial reset arrives.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Chris Oliviero Still Yet To Name Permanent Overnight Host on WFAN

BSM Staff
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Chris Oliviero Still Yet To Name Permanent Overnight Host on WFAN

WFAN’s latest programming reset may have begun with the highly publicized return of Craig Carton, but the station’s transformation still remains unfinished as one key position continues to draw unexpected attention.

More than a month after Carton rejoined the station’s weekday lineup, WFAN has yet to name a permanent overnight host. While the gap might appear minor in a schedule dominated by marquee dayparts, station executives say the reaction has revealed just how deeply listeners care about every hour of the broadcast day.

Chris Oliviero, chief business officer and New York market president for Audacy, acknowledged that the response caught him off guard. Speaking recently with Newsday, Oliviero said listener curiosity about the overnight vacancy generated more discussion than some of the station’s headline-grabbing moves.

“The fact that we did not announce a permanent overnight host got a lot of attention. To me, I was kind of like, ‘Oh, it was just a mention in passing in a press release. Maybe the last paragraph. No one’s going to ask anything.’ Guess what? We got a ton of questions on it,” said Oliviero to Newsday. “Which I love because, again, it’s a metric of passion. People care about all 24 hours in the day.”

Since the station elevated Chris McMonigle from overnights to afternoon drive alongside Carton, it has relied on fill-ins. Those fill-ins have covered the overnight daypart. The group includes Al Cintron, Gordon Damer, and Pete Hoffman. The shift follows Tommy Lugauer’s After Hours show. That program wraps at midnight or 2 a.m., depending on whether WFAN carries live night games.

Oliviero emphasized that, despite the lack of a permanent name, the station remains committed to live and local programming throughout the night.

“The commitment to live and local overnights is there. We will see if and when — and it’s a question of when, it’s not a question of if — it’s a question of when we feel we have found the right person to do that permanently,” said Oliviero.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Shannon Sharpe Says He Would Love To Return to ESPN

BSM Staff
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Shannon Sharpe Says He Would Love To Return to ESPN

Shannon Sharpe is not closing the door on a return to ESPN, even after one of the most turbulent stretches of his media career. The Pro Football Hall of Famer said this week to Front Office Sports that he would welcome another opportunity to reunite with ESPN and longtime on-air foil Stephen A. Smith if network executives decide the timing is right.

Sharpe emphasized that any reunion would be out of his hands but made it clear his interest remains strong. He pointed to the continued growth of his digital platforms as evidence that his audience has remained engaged and loyal despite recent controversy.

“That’s not my call. I would love to go back if they were to call. Burke [Magnus], Jimmy [Pitaro], Dave Roberts. That is their call. But obviously, I’m more than willing, I’m more than capable, “ Sharpe said.

After departing Undisputed on FS1 in 2023 following a highly publicized split with Skip Bayless, Sharpe joined Smith on First Take in a part-time role the following year. In mid-2024, he signed a multi-year extension that elevated his standing within the network while also allowing him to expand his independent media ventures, including Club Shay Shay and Nightcap.

By early 2025, Sharpe was fielding interest in Shay Shay Media as his distribution agreement with The Volume, founded by Colin Cowherd, neared its conclusion. Industry speculation suggested Sharpe could command a deal comparable to other top podcast entrepreneurs.

Those plans unraveled last spring when Sharpe became embroiled in a highly publicized lawsuit that ultimately led to his departure from ESPN. Although the matter was settled, the fallout effectively ended his time at the network.

Even so, Sharpe said his relationship with Smith never wavered. He told FOS the First Take host for offering consistent personal support and maintaining frequent communication during the aftermath.

Since then, he said viewership for Club Shay Shay and Nightcap increased throughout the 2025 NFL season, including a rise in live-episode engagement. For now, Sharpe says he remains focused on building independently while staying open to what comes next. Whether that path leads back to ESPN remains uncertain, but his presence in sports media shows no sign of fading.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Several MLB Teams Considering Creating Their Own Regional Sports Network

BSM Staff
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Several MLB Teams Considering Creating Their Own Regional Sports Network

The unraveling of Main Street Sports Group continues to push professional MLB teams toward alternative broadcast models. According to a report by The Sports Business Journal, two Major League Baseball franchises appear to be exploring paths that keep local control firmly in their own hands.

According to the report, the Los Angeles Angels and Atlanta Braves are separately evaluating the creation of team-controlled regional sports networks. The teams would pursue that option rather than immediately shifting game productions to MLB Media. Those conversations remain fluid for both organizations. However, they underscore a broader pivot away from traditional RSN ownership structures. Those models have dominated the sports media landscape for the past two decades.

In Southern California, discussions involving the Angels remain in the early stages. Angels owner Arte Moreno would first need to buy out Main Street’s stake in FanDuel Sports Network West. That move would clear the path to move forward. It would allow the franchise to operate the channel independently. The shift could also open the door for the Los Angeles Kings to join the network as a rights-paying partner.

The Kings would not hold an ownership stake, but such an arrangement could stabilize local distribution for both properties during a turbulent period for RSNs.

Meanwhile, the Braves have explored a different model. The report states the MLB franchise, which is owned by Liberty Media, has held preliminary talks with the Atlanta Hawks about consolidating broadcasts under one regional umbrella in the Southeast.

While any deal would likely place control with the Braves, the concept leaves room for expansion beyond two teams.

Executives familiar with the situation told SBJ they believe a Braves-led network could leverage an existing footprint across multiple southern states. That reach could allow the network to incorporate additional professional teams if rights align. This type of multi-team model has gained traction recently. Franchises view it as protection from the financial instability that has plagued many RSN operators.

Both the Angels and Braves have asked Major League Baseball for additional time before committing to league-run distribution. While MLB has already absorbed production responsibilities for several clubs exiting Main Street agreements, not every team appears eager to relinquish autonomy or local advertising control.

The urgency stems from Main Street’s expected wind-down, which NBA and NHL teams believe could accelerate following the conclusion of the current basketball season.

League officials and team executives remain uncertain whether remaining rights payments will be fulfilled, prompting contingency planning across multiple markets.

If Main Street’s networks were to go dark abruptly, leagues are prepared to act quickly. They would shift games to direct-to-consumer platforms. Those options include services such as League Pass and NHL GameCenter. Looking ahead, teams are also vetting partnerships with independent streaming providers as long-term solutions.

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Barrett Media’s Top 20 Major Market Sports Radio Program Directors of 2025

Jason Barrett
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Barrett Media’s Top 20 Major Market Sports Radio Program Directors of 2025

Barrett Media’s Top 20 series for Sports Radio is down to its final two categories. Today, we recognize the format’s best Program Directors. On Monday, we close it out by acknowledging the format’s Top Sports Radio stations. We then shift immediately into our Top 20 in News/Talk radio and television series, and then wrap it all up with our eight-format celebration for Music Radio.

To stay updated on all of the Top 20 Major and Mid Market lists across the entire industry, keep an eye on this website, our newsletters and X, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, and/or Instagram. After the Top 20 series is complete, I will record a video discussing the key takeaways from this year’s results. That video will be posted on the Barrett Media YouTube page. Be sure to subscribe to be notified once it’s live.

As you review these results, please remember that they represent the collective feedback shared by our industry voters. Barrett Media does not vote in this process. Our role is to assemble the group, collect the votes, and present the information.

Important Information

#1 – These results are based on 2025’s performance. 2026 changes have no effect on the voting.

#2 – We ask our voters to supply photos and logos to avoid headaches. Some comply, but most don’t. It forces us to spend a lot of time digging for images to highlight everyone. For that reason, there are no photo changes unless it involves a mistake. Thanks in advance for understanding.

#3 – Our Major Market executive panel consists of thirty six (36) program directors and corporate executives from radio’s top broadcasting companies. They include Audacy, iHeart, Cumulus, Beasley, Good Karma Brands, Bonneville, SiriusXM, ESPN Radio, FOX Sports Radio, Radio One, and a bunch of independently owned and operated radio stations. Our voting group is large because we want feedback from every part of the country. We also do that to assure the results don’t favor any one media group.

#4 – The criteria for our voters included the ear test, originality, multi-platform impact, ratings success, clearance (national shows) and industry buzz. Keep in mind, our voters live in different cities, work for different companies, have different tastes, and value certain factors higher than others. This is not a perfect system but it’s one we feel good about using to showcase the industry’s best.

#5 – A total of 32 PDs were eligible for voting consideration in the Major Market Sports Radio Program Directors category.

And the Winner Is…

104.3 The Score’s Mitch Rosen. This is Mitch’s second time being voted the top Sports Radio Program Director in the Major Market category. He last won the honor in 2019. Rosen finished third in the voting last year behind Jimmy Powers and Rick Radzik.

I want to thank Dylan Barrett for creating the artwork, and each voter who participated in the process. Now without further delay, here are Barrett Media’s Top 20 Major Market Sports Radio Program Directors of 2025.

Additional Notes:

  • Mitch Rosen won a close call, edging Rod Lakin by six (6) points. Rosen earned the most first place votes in the category with nine (9).
  • Spots 21-25 belonged to Len Weiner, Mike Hohler, Kevin Shockey, Chris Gordy, and Greg Bergman.
  • The closest contest saw Danny Zederman slip by Mike Conti by two (2) points.
  • Of the 32 programmers to appear on submitted ballots, seven (7) received at least one 1st place vote.

BM Top 20 of 2025 Remaining Schedule:

  • Monday February 9 = BSM Top 20 Major/Mid Market Sports Radio Stations of 2025

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

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